Germany marked the 80th anniversary of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings with a stark warning that nuclear war “cannot be won and must never be fought,” as Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul condemned growing threats to the global nuclear order.
In a statement released Wednesday, Wadephul criticized Russia for engaging in “nuclear blackmail,” warning it undermines decades of arms control efforts and poses a threat to global security.
“Unfortunately, we also see countries like Russia engage in nuclear blackmail, thereby calling into question the nuclear order and its function as a central pillar of global security,” Wadephul said.
Wadephul also expressed Germany’s dedication to ensuring that Iran does not acquire nuclear weapons.
Why It Matters
The remarks reflect mounting concern within NATO that global nuclear stability is eroding amid escalating geopolitical tensions.
There has been international concern over Iran’s nuclear program. Iran has said that its nuclear program is peaceful and for civilian energy use, but international observers believe the country has enriched uranium beyond what is needed for non-nuclear purposes.
Iran has sought support from Russia following the United States and Israeli airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.
What To Know
Wadephul reaffirmed Germany’s commitment alongside France and the United Kingdom to strengthening the Non-Proliferation Treaty and preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, signed in 1968, aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons. With nearly 200 parties, it is the most widely adhered-to nuclear non-proliferation treaty.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul gives a statement to journalists after a meeting with representatives of the U.N. and international non-governmental organizations in Jerusalem on August 1, 2025.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul gives a statement to journalists after a meeting with representatives of the U.N. and international non-governmental organizations in Jerusalem on August 1, 2025.
Felix Zahn/picture-alliance/dpa/AP Images
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi recently told the Financial Times that the country has the technology to restart uranium enrichment despite damage to its facilities.
“Buildings can be rebuilt. Machines can be replaced because the technology is there. We have plenty of scientists and technicians who used to work in our facilities,” he said. “But when and how we restart our enrichment depends on the circumstances.”
What People Are Saying
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, in a statement: “To safeguard peace and security, we must continue to bolster our deterrence and defence capabilities, while continuing to work with determination to promote the international order.”
Iran Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told the Financial Times: “We can negotiate, they can present their argument, and we will present our own argument. But with zero enrichment, we don’t have a thing.”
What Happens Next
Wadephul said that Germany, along with France and the U.K., is dedicated to ensuring that the concerns over Iran’s nuclear program are resolved through diplomatic means.
Iran is continuing talks with the three nations. Iran has also said that it is open to resuming talks with the U.S. under certain conditions, including compensation for damage done to its facilities in June.
Do you have a story that Newsweek should be covering? Do you have any questions about this story? Contact LiveNews@newsweek.com.
Update 8/6/25, 5:01 p.m. ET: This article was updated with additional information.